Sarah Wilson was the first African American born in Rantoul, Illinois, formerly a military city where recruits nationwide were trained. Mrs. Wilson, now a widow, was married to Walker Wilson and has two daughters, Barbara Jones and Norma Harris, and four grandchildren, one of whom preceded her in death. Mrs. Wilson worked as a window dresser, nurse’s aide at a local hospital and security guard for Indianapolis Public School 17. Her hobbies included reading, dancing and cooking. Asked what contributes to Mrs. Wilson’s longevity, her daughter Barbara responded, “I think it’s because she lived a clean life with a strong family. We just believe and trust in God.”

Thelma Frame is an accomplished artist who leads creative activities for her fellow residents at Zionsville Meadows Assisted Living. Thelma grew up in northern Indiana on a farm. She studied education at Indiana University and spent much of her adulthood as a teacher. She developed a love for drawing and painting as a child and went on to win several awards at regional painting competitions well into her 90's. She has several paintings exhibited at the Richmond Art Museum in Richmond, Indiana, where she once lived.

Her advice is to keep active and to never stop enjoying hobbies.

WISH-TV recently featured Patty Spitler's heartwarming interview with Thelma on Great Day TV. Enjoy hearing her remarkable life story and how she is living life to the fullest at American Senior Communities: https://youtu.be/7hSjQTTKgzk

Thelma Spears, known by friends as Nanny, had very strong faith and taught Sunday school for years. She not only had great support from her family, but her dog, Fee Fee, was always by her side as well. She was not afraid to tell you how she did not like cats. Her secret to living a long life was to be strong and to do what you have to do in order to support your family.

Vera Meadows is a Chicago native who graduated in 1932 from Central Catholic High School. She married Bill Meadows and together they had three children and many grandchildren. She was a cafeteria aide for several years. Her hobbies include dancing, reading, going on walks and being with family and friends.

When asked what her advice is for living a long life, she said, "Dance your heart out."

Virginia Hayworth formerly owned County Line Flower Shop in Farmersburg. She was a judge in numerous flower shows and a member of Sullivan County Garden Club. She also worked in the Curry Township Trustee Office and was a member of Westlawn Cemetery Board.

When asked her secret to longevity, she said; “I take every day as it comes… If it was a hard day, I took it, worked hard and made it easy.”

Virginia Niemann met her husband when she was 7 years old. She said, “While all the other boys would chase the girls during recess, there was one that would not, and I thought to myself, this is who I am going to marry.” And she did just that! Virginia always had her eyes on the prize. She fulfilled her dreams of becoming a successful clothing designer for women’s sportwear. She always had an interest in sports and attributes her love of exercise and nutrition to the reason why she has lived a long life. She even participated in water aerobics until she was 98!

Virginia Reiberg is such a lovely person and an absolute joy. We're so blessed to have her as part of the American Village family!

Virginia said she hails from Detroit, Michigan, but spent much of her adult life here in Indianapolis. She helped countless people through her job as a Social Worker and is very proud of that! As a matter of fact, she says her best day was the day she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work. Virginia loves to read and listen to music, and you'll often find her looking through a book or magazine.

Happy 102nd Birthday, Virginia! We love you!

Virginia Swim is a kind-hearted woman who always knows just what to say. She's fun to be around and is a genuine friend.

Willa Saine was a busy lady who spent most of her days at her church. She gives it all up to God for keeping her healthy and happy throughout her life. She said, “God has been good to me. It’s all up to him.” In her spare time she enjoyed reading and cooking.